How do you pronounce "cleave"?

In American English: /ˈkliːv/ (KLEEV). In British English: /klˈiːv/ (KL). In Canadian English: /ˈkliːv/ (KLEEV). In Australian English: /klˈiːv/ (KL).

Is "cleave" pronounced differently in American and British English?

Yes. In American English it's pronounced /ˈkliːv/ (KLEEV), while in British English it's /klˈiːv/ (KL).

How to Pronounce "cleave"

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cleave

/ˈkliːv/

KLEEV

Syllable Breakdown

kliːvcleave

Source

90%confidence📘 CMU Pronouncing Dictionary v0.7b

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Last updated: 2026-02-14